** Shares of Aspen Group APZ.AX rise as much as 5.5% to A$4.23 to hit their highest level since mid-May 2010; last up 3.2%

** At the current level, the retirement home operator is heading for the best day since May 20, if gains hold

** Co posts 35% rise in FY underlying operating profit while revenue rises 17%

** Sees FY26 underlying operating EBITDA of A$47.0 million ($30.23 million) , higher than A$41.39 million in FY25

** Declares final distribution of 5 AU cents per share, higher than 4.25 AU cents last year

** Stock up ~68% this year, including the day's move

($1 = 1.5547 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by John Biju in Bengaluru)

((John.Biju@thomsonreuters.com;))